HIST 121 - Asian History to 1500

Offers students a critical understanding of Asian cultures and histories by familiarizing them with the fundamental ideas, values, and practices of Asia as expressed in religion, philosophy, literature, art, and society. Students are expected to engage some of the core texts of Asian traditions, ranging from Confucian, Daoist, Hindu, and Buddhist classics to literary masterpieces, as well as to appreciate how religious and philosophical traditions have shaped differently and similarly the cultures and societies of different regions of Asia. Readings and assignments aim at fostering analytic, interpretive, and creative abilities, and at developing the oral and written communication skills of students.